a party or enjoyable social event arranged secretly in order to surprise somebody
For my birthday, my parents had arranged a surprise party.
He walked into a surprise party with seventy guests.
surprise party in American English
noun
1.
a party or celebration planned for someone as a surprise
2.
something that surprises someone
Word origin
[1835–45]This word is first recorded in the period 1835–45. Other words that entered Englishat around the same time include: crosshead, ecumenical, faceplate, hot plate, placement
Examples of 'surprise party' in a sentence
surprise party
Today his family has been planning a surprise party and a weekend away.
Times, Sunday Times (2011)
But he had planned a big surprise party with my co-stars.
The Sun (2018)
I organised a surprise party and invited all our friends.
The Sun (2015)
I decided to arrange a surprise party for his 30th.
The Sun (2018)
We have been invited to a 'surprise party' for dear friends.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
When she turned 75, we hosted a surprise party with 100 guests.
Globe and Mail (2003)
Two nights earlier the band threw a surprise party for their friend.
The Sun (2010)
On his birthday, she organises a surprise party.
Times, Sunday Times (2014)
It was for a surprise party for her mum and dad's wedding anniversary.
The Sun (2012)
The residents organise a surprise party for a neighbour.